New revelations about Kawhi Leonard’s 2019 free agency have surfaced, shedding light on the extraordinary demands made during negotiations with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Stefan Bondy of the New York Post reported that Leonard’s uncle, Dennis Robertson, asked the Lakers for a private plane, a house, and even an ownership stake in the franchise. Bondy shared the details in a post on social media, describing the requests as important but not surprising.
The timing of Bondy’s report coincides with another development surrounding Leonard. Pablo Torre revealed documents suggesting Leonard signed a $28 million endorsement deal with an allegedly fraudulent tree-planting company ‘Aspiration’ that was allegedly funded by $50 million from Clippers owner Steve Ballmer.
Leonard was one of the most coveted free agents in 2019 after winning a championship with the Toronto Raptors. The Lakers, Clippers, and Raptors all pursued him heavily, but the forward ultimately chose the Clippers, who paired him with Paul George in a blockbuster move.
Robertson’s reported requests went far beyond standard free agency negotiations. Under NBA rules, ownership stakes and similar benefits are strictly prohibited in contracts, making the demands impossible for the Lakers to fulfill.
The Lakers’ inability to secure Leonard shifted the league’s balance of power. While the Clippers built around Leonard and George, the Lakers regrouped by adding depth around LeBron James and Anthony Davis. That roster won the 2020 NBA championship.
Leonard’s time with the Clippers has included stretches of elite play alongside injuries, including an ACL tear in 2021. He remains under contract through 2027 after signing a three-year, $152.4 million extension in early 2024.
